The Start of Nothing New

Ever since I can remember, I've wanted something more. The usual path of going to school, then college, finding a job, and retiring never quite fit what I imagined for myself. While I think it's great for some people, it's just not for me. I've seen friends go down different paths, some following the usual way, while others didn't even go to college. I support both.

These days, it seems like a lot of folks don't want to work. There are good and bad sides to this. On the downside, it means there are not enough people for jobs, which makes things more expensive, and some folks try to cheat the system. But what I'm trying to say is, just because someone doesn't want to work all the time doesn't mean they lack motivation. Sure, some people might be lazy and not want to work, but for me, I'm motivated when it's something I really want to do, not just something I have to do. My real drive comes from my dreams.

I really believe you don't need college to be successful -- if you have the right characteristics. Look at people like Steve Jobs or fashion designers, Ralph Lauren and Coco Chanel. Look at a lot of folks in the music industry! They all had a dream and went for it. They loved something, had a talent or passion, and said, "You know what? I could make something out of this." College is a good way to make sure you have a stable job, and I still think that's true. But I also know that if you really want to reach your dreams, you have to give it your all. You have to ignore negative thoughts and people and do what's best for you. Some people will tell you that college is the only way, or that you won't do well without a clear plan. But this is your life, not theirs. Sometimes it might seem selfish, but nobody gets where they want to be by trying to make everyone happy. Life isn't about everyone getting a trophy. You work hard and you get what you deserve..

If you're like me, your friends might just want to have fun and enjoy their college years, and that's totally fine. But for me, I'd rather use those nights to work on my dreams instead of partying.

Wouldn't you rather enjoy life with good friends, people supporting you and make memories like no other than be hot, sweaty, and puking in a frat guys basement, surrounded by fake friends and regretting your life decisions the next day?

Maybe it's just me, but it's something I've known for a while. I can thank my parents for showing me that you don't need college to follow your dreams. Yeah, it can help, and it's a good idea to have a degree just in case things go haywire one day, but both my mom and dad are proof that you can be successful without one. They've shown me that it's okay to do what I want and go after what makes me happy.

So, with all that said, I'm starting this blog. I've never done anything like this before. I've been writing in a journal since I was eight years old, but I never thought I'd share my thoughts and feelings with everyone. I'm still not sure about what I want to do in life, and that's okay. I'm 19 years old as I write this chapter, and I don't need to have it all figured out just yet. All I know is that I have big dreams that are calling me to go after them. I'm still planning on finishing college, but if you're reading this and you're unsure about college, don't let me tell you what to do. Just know that if you're really determined and willing to work hard for your dreams, then don't let anyone stand in your way, even if that means taking some time away from people, school, work, or whatever it may be. Ignore the people who try to bring you down as much as you can. They're probably just jealous that you have the courage to take the risks they're too scared to take. Remember, it's not about being born knowing how to do something. It's about having the drive, the want, and the commitment to be the best you can be.

Love,

19 year old Hope